Partridge Green in ‘shock’ after school’s ‘inadequate’ Ofsted report

The chair of governors of a Partridge Green school placed in special measures by Ofsted said he has been ‘heartened’ by community and staff support in recent months.

Jolesfield Church of England Primary School was ranked ‘outstanding’ by the education regulatory body in January 2010, but fell to ‘inadequate’ after an inspection in June this year.

Last night’s (Wednesday September 11) meeting of Chanctonbury County Local Committee addressed the issue.

A strong turnout of parents of children at the school heard co-headteachers Sue Uff and Christine Knight explain how they have produced a 42-page ‘action plan’ to combat the school’s weaknesses.

The headteachers are now working alongside Catherine Davies, a senior advisor in support and education service, representing West Sussex County Council.

David Green, who became a governor at the school in November of last year and chair of governors last week, admitted he has ‘been on a very steep learning curve’.

He said: “The Ofsted report did come as a huge shock to literally everybody in the village.

“I have to say I have found it very heartening the way the entire community has rallied around to make sure we are out of special measures soon.

“Sue and Christine have put in a tremendous amount of work in preparing the action plan which is going to help us get ourselves out of the mess we find ourselves in.”

Both headteachers spoke during the meeting.

Mrs Uff said: “Everybody is absolutely dedicated and driven to move the school on, and we are working very closely with the local authority to make those improvements.

“We are keeping parents as informed as possible.”

Mrs Knight added: “The action plan has financial implications as well and as a small village school, we don’t have a huge budget.